A well-known Newcastle councillor has appeared in court accused of stalking a woman.
Dipu Ahad, who represents the Elswick ward, in the city's West End, was in the dock on Tuesday morning, having been charged with the offence last month.
During the hearing at North Tyneside Magistrates' Court , the 39-year-old confirmed his name, date of birth, address and nationality and that he was withholding his plea to one count of aggravated stalking.
Sue Baker, prosecuting, said the case related to Ahad, of Ilfracombe Avenue, Benwell, allegedly stalking a woman "intensely" between December 31 2018 and May 5 2019.
Up to 16 separate incidents over that time were listed within the charge.
Mrs Baker said: "This is a matter that ought to be dealt with at the crown court as, if convicted of the charge, the defendant is likely to receive more than six months in custody."
Kash Khan, defending, agreed.
Magistrates declined jurisdiction and Ahad was released on conditional bail to next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on January 28.
Lillian Malloy, presiding magistrate, said: "You're expected at the crown court on the Quayside on January 28. You have extensive bail conditions until then."
Part of Ahad's bail conditions include him being banned from "loitering" outside a premises where the alleged victim might be visiting, residing or working, and from contacting her by any means.
Ahad has been suspended by the Labour Party but will retain his seat on the council as an independent.
He has served as a Labour councillor in the Elswick ward since 2007.
His current term of office runs to May 2020.
